'I didn't know how to keep my kids safe on their phones, until an expert shared these three hacks.'

Trying to keep our kids safe on their many technological devices is daunting.

It's a completely different landscape than the one we grew up in. Short of moving to a technology-free cult with no access to Wi-Fi, the best thing we can do as parents is arm ourselves with knowledge.

And keep up to date with the latest technical protections available, which we can actually put in place.

After a recent visit to Apple HQ, I got the inside scoop on some game-changing safety features that the experts themselves use for their own kids at home. Which admittedly, I didn't have in place on my kids' devices, but now do…

Watch: Do you know what your kids are consuming online? Post continues below.

What I discovered is that we can block inappropriate images and videos being received, prevent surprise credit card charges from apps and games, and there are parental controls for accessing everything; from explicit content on websites, songs, apps, games and shows.

In today's digital world, it's not about helicopter parenting; it's about smart parenting with the right tools at your disposal.

Before getting started.

Before diving into these hacks, you'll need to set up a separate Apple Account for your child. This prevents them from accessing your personal data while giving them their own safe space to explore.

Then you can easily set age-based parental controls, and they can use Family Sharing.

• On your iPhone or iPad

• Go to Settings > Family.

• Tap the Add Member button

• Tap Create Child Account, then tap Continue.

EXPERT TIP: Never share the 'Screen Time' password with your child, this will null and void the safety features as they will be able to override them. This is a parent or carer, 'family circle only' level of trust.

Image: Apple

1. Communication Safety: The nudity blocker.

This clever feature acts like a digital bodyguard, protecting your kids from inappropriate images. If someone tries to send your child content containing nudity, the system automatically blurs the photo or video before your child can view it on their device. Game changer!

They're safe-guarded with a three-step verification process, which also offers them ways to get help.

If they choose to continue to view the image or video, they will need to enter the 'Screen Time Password'. Which, as I mentioned above, they should never know. Plus, you'll get an alert if your child attempts to view blocked content, putting you firmly in control.

Image: Apple

• How to activate Communication Safety settings:

  • Open Screen Time settings:
  • iPhone, iPad, or Apple Vision Pro: Go to Settings > Screen Time.
  • Mac: Choose the Apple menu > System Settings, then click Screen Time.
  • Select the name of a child in your family group.
  • Select Communication Safety.
  • Turn Communication Safety on or off.

  2. Ask to Buy: Your digital wallet guardian.

  If you've ever been stung by surprise charges from app purchases or Fortnite skins, this one is for you.

  Plus, you can ensure all app purchases (including the free ones), TV shows, movies or books purchased through the Apple Store are appropriate for your child.

  The 'Ask to Buy' feature is your new best friend. Every time your child tries to make a purchase, you'll receive a request that needs your approval. This means no more unexpected bills, and you can ensure all purchases, are age-appropriate. BOOM!

  Image: Apple

  How to activate Ask To Buy Function:

  • Open the Settings app.
  • Tap Family.
  • Tap your family member's name, then tap Ask to Buy.
  • In iOS 15 or earlier, tap Ask to Buy, then tap your family member's name.

  3. Parental controls: content and privacy restrictions.

  Through 'Screen Time', you can set up comprehensive content and privacy restrictions that put you in the driver's seat. This feature lets you block explicit content, and you can set age-related restrictions for content they can view on websites, for purchases and downloads.

  It's also a tool that allows parents to choose how — and how often kids can use their devices.

  Image: Apple

  How to turn on Content and Privacy Restrictions:

  • Open the Settings app, then tap Screen Time.
  • Under Family, choose your child's name.
  • Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions. If asked, enter your Screen Time passcode, then turn on Content & Privacy Restrictions.

  After you've turned on Content & Privacy Restrictions, you can set up a heap of specific parental controls. You can find the full and comprehensive list of parental controls you can activate here.

  Remember, the goal isn't to restrict your kids completely, but to create a safe digital environment where they can explore and learn while staying protected from online risks.

  What are your tried-and-tested hacks for keeping kids safe online? Share in the comments below!

  Feature Image: Getty

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